The ginkgo tree, also known as the fan leaf tree, has been on earth for around 250 million years and is best known for the unique shape of its leaves. However, sometimes these do not appear because the buds do not open.
Why might Ginkgo buds not open?
Ginkgo buds usually open in late April or May. If they don't open, root problems, frost damage or waterlogging may be the cause. Ensure winter protection and well-drained soil or adequate pot drainage.
When does the ginkgo sprout?
If the buds of the ginkgo tree don't want to burst open with the first warm rays of sunshine in spring, that's completely normal. The ginkgos, originally native to China, will sproutfrom the end of April at the earliest, but more likely not until May. Ginkgo biloba is rather sedate not only in its growth, but also in all other things - perhaps one of the reasons why the species was able to survive for so long on earth under rapidly changing weather conditions. In October, the leaves emerging from the buds finally turn golden yellow and fall off.
What do the buds of the ginkgo tree look like?
Ginkgo trees produce quite striking,light brown buds, which are surrounded by small leaves. They are created during the growing season and remaindormant over the winter and protected by solid scales on the branches. Typically these are winter buds
- up to four millimeters long
- rather flat
- and conical
In addition to side buds, there are also so-calledend or terminal buds, which are located at the tips of the shoots and are particularly thick.
Female and male ginkgos can be distinguished from one another by the shape of their buds: The buds of female trees taper to a point, while those of male ginkgos are significantly larger and rounded
Why don't the ginkgo buds open?
If the buds of the ginkgo tree simply do not want to open, there are usuallyRoot problems behind it. The roots may have suffered damage from frost, although this problem particularly affects ginkgos kept in pots. But not only, because young ginkgo trees are also quite sensitive to cold temperatures and need protection on icy winter nights.
But other damage, such as root rot, cannot be ruled out. Ginkgo - like many other plants - cannot toleratewaterlogging and react to it by rotting. That's why you should always ensure well-drained soil or suitable pot drainage (€7.00 on Amazon).
Tip
Where do the characteristic leaves get their shape?
Ginkgo trees are neither deciduous nor coniferous trees, but form their very own class. According to a popular belief, the iconic leaves owe their shape to the fusion of original needles over time. However, no scientific evidence of this has been found so far.
